Faculty Spotlight – Theresa Ragland, Physical Therapist Assistant Instructor

Have you always worked in Education?

No, I have always wanted to work in education, which is why when the opportunity came up to become a laboratory assistant for the physical therapy assistant program, I jumped on it! I was a gymnastics coach for many years, so having a background of teaching young children to adults about controlled movement in order to master their skills. After awhile, I decided to go back to school at CBD College in the physical therapist assistant program. I earned my degree and got a license and started working as a physical therapist assistant with a specialty in aquatic therapy. 

What specifically is your role here at CBD College? 

I am an instructor for the Physical Therapist Assistant program. Currently, I am teaching our Mod 3 students in a course and their lab, and will be starting with the new hybrid program students for their mod 2 courses in October!

When did you start working at CBD College?

I started working as a laboratory assistant in March 2019 and became a full-time instructor in November 2020. 

Before working at CBD College, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

I grew up in Anaheim, so I worked at Disneyland as one of my first jobs. I worked in food service and special events. I was an outdoor vendor, restaurant hostess, and busser. My favorite times were getting to make the cotton candy, and working the special events. I worked the premiere of the Pirates Of The Caribbean movie and got to see and serve many Hollywood stars; it was fun! 

 Who is your greatest inspiration or mentor?

While I was going through the program at CBD College I really looked up to Dr. Kathleen McGuire. She was an exceptional instructor and she inspired me to become an instructor. I had the pleasure of her being one of my mentors when I first started here at CBD College. Overall, since I have been here I have been inspired by all my fellow instructors here as well.

What do you find most inspiring or fulfilling about your job?

I work with a great team, I enjoy saying “I have to work now” and the most inspiring is seeing the students have their “I get it!” moment. Watching them succeed and go above and beyond what they thought they could do. This last weekend seeing a few students volunteer their time to work an event for physical therapist and physical therapist assistants was so fun, and so awesome. We had 3 of our current Mod 5 students volunteering! So great to see!

Do you have any advice for potential students interested in pursuing a career as a healthcare professional?

This program takes time and dedication; just as any program or profession in the healthcare system. My advise is to make time and try to follow a schedule as best as you can. We can help you build a scheduled based on your needs to ensure you keep up with your work. Also, use your resources provided. Your text books, your instructors and even your peers are going to be your best resource and support. Do your best to keep up with assignments, and reach out to instructors as soon as you start feeling overwhelmed. As instructors we truly are your support and we are more than happy to help you as best as possible through this journey.

Interested in becoming a Physical Therapist Assistant? We’re here to help you start your successful career in healthcare. Don’t wait any longer! Give us a call at (213) 427-2200 or visit our Physical Therapist Assistant page to schedule a tour today!